Dr Sophie Schimmel
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This professional is available for new clients.
This professional is available for new clients.
About me
Life’s challenges—whether they arise as stress, anxiety, sadness, or relationship difficulties—can often leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves. My approach is grounded in the belief that our perceptions of ourselves and our environment are deeply interconnected, and I draw on this systemic perspective to promote healing and personal growth. Working integratively, I tailor each session to the individual, recognising that each person’s mental health journey is unique. I am trained in a range of therapeutic approaches, including Person-Centred, CBT, ACT, EMDR, and systemic therapy, and adapt interventions to meet each client’s specific needs.
In a supportive, compassionate space, I help clients explore their experiences with warmth, respect, and acceptance. At the heart of my practice is a commitment to fostering self-exploration, resilience, and meaningful change.
Training, qualifications & experience
I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist (CPsychol), registered with both the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the British Psychological Society (BPS). I bring extensive experience from working across the NHS, private practice, and the charity sector. I specialise in supporting adolescents and adults dealing with a range of challenges, including anxiety, low mood, trauma, relationship difficulties, and identity issues such as sexuality and self-acceptance. In my role within a specialised NHS clinic, I support individuals managing life-long health conditions, recognising the critical intersection between physical and mental health.
In private practice, I work primarily with adolescents and adults on issues like stress, low self-esteem, trauma, relationship concerns, communication, parenting and navigating divorce. I also specialise in supporting individuals who are exploring or struggling with their sexuality, offering a safe and affirming space for self-acceptance. Additionally, I have extensive experience working with people living with on-going health conditions including HIV and other sexual health conditions. I provide compassionate care tailored to each individual's unique needs.
My NHS work is centred within a specialised infectious diseases clinic, where I offer therapeutic support to those facing the psychological impact of long-term health conditions. This role involves addressing complex emotions tied to trauma, shame, guilt, and identity struggles, including sexuality and self-acceptance. I help clients build resilience and move towards acceptance and personal growth through trauma-informed care that strengthens emotional well-being.
My training spans several therapeutic approaches, including: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), humanistic therapy, integrative therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, and systemic (family) therapy. I draw from this diverse range of techniques to tailor each session to meet individual goals and needs.
Individuals do not need a specific diagnosis or label to seek support. In our initial consultation, I work collaboratively with clients to explore their emotional health and consider the therapeutic approach that would be most beneficial.
Member organisations
school Registered / Accredited
Being registered/accredited with a professional body means an individual must have achieved a substantial level of training and experience approved by their member organisation.
The HCPC are an independent, UK-wide health regulator. They set standards of professional training, performance and conduct for 16 professions.
They keep a register of health professionals who meet their standards, and they take action if registered health professionals fall below those standards. They were created by a piece of legislation called the Health Professions Order 2001.
Registration means that a health professional meets national standards for their professional training, performance and conduct.
Areas of counselling I deal with
Therapies offered
Fees
£120.00 per session
Free initial telephone session
Health Insurance/EAP
Additional information
I offer a free telephone consultation.
Health Insurances Accepted:
WPA, AXA Health, Aviva, Allianz, BUPA, Freedom Health, Vitality Health
Additional information:
Please do get in contact with any questions. I also adhere to insurance fees, and will adjust my fees according to your insurance provider.
When I work
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